Glossary

paramilitary

organized similarly to a military force but is of an unofficial force

Partisan

describing a person or policy who is strongly in favor of one political party over another.

Passed the bar

A lawyer’s successful completion of all the requirements to practice law. These requirements have changed throughout history.

Patriotic Society

A political club with influence in the state of Virginia.

Pension

a regular payment made during a person’s retirement from an investment fund to which that person or their employer has contributed during their working life.

Per curiam

refers to a (generally brief) decision attributable to an entire court, rather than to a specific judge. A per curiam opinion can resolve cases promptly, often without oral argument.

Peripheral

relating to or situated on the edge of something

Persecution

the cruel and unfair treatment of a person or group, especially because of their religious beliefs

Personal Jurisdiction

a court’s authority to make a binding decision or judgment against a particular person or entity in a lawsuit.

Petition

A formal written request.